All Forum Posts by David Chenault

Re: Youngs/Lean-ToMy recollection of the area is not recent, but Lean-To is certainly strenuous. That big bypass in the upper reaches looks intimidating for sure.
My preference for that rather than the Woodens...

Re: Dark Canyon WildernessGood stuff Tim. According to reports the desert Bighorns are doing pretty well down there. My one trip down there involved a brief standoff with a ram at one of the bypasses around the pools down...

Re: Help narrow focus for Southern Utah trip?My first thought would be to find something as different as possible to provide a nice contrast. The Dark Canyon complex comes to mind, as does Kanab Creek in the Grand Canyon. Permits in the Gra...

Re: GG Kumo or ULA CDTComparing the CDT and Kumo three differences come to mind, aside from the obvious variations in features (lid on the Kumo, etc). First, the larger sewn in belt on the CDT is going to provide a bit...

Re: Granite Gear Virga 26My concern with the Virga 26 is that it's offered in one size only. My assumption is that the torso length will be on the short size, thus making for less than ideal load carry for taller folk...

Patagonia Capilene 1 T-ShirtCap 1 seems to have changed very little since it was called silkweight capilene back in the day. It dries very quickly, wicks pretty well (though not as well as cap 2), and most importantly feels lig...

Therm-A-Rest RidgerestI use a cut-down 48" Ridgerest on every trip. Bombproof, comfy, light, cheap. In winter, I add a full length under it.
I actually sleep better on this than most inflatables, but realize I&...

MLD TrailstarIn summary: Aside from a bivy sack for good weather and race pace endeavors, I've sold off the rest of my shelters. It's a great cross of a pyramid and a tarp.
Finished weight, seam sealed...

FireLite Trapper's MugA very well designed cup. Light, but seems just as functionaly durable as Snowpeak or Evernew stuff. Ideal size for a soloist. The taller than it is wide shape is one I prefer for cooking on a fire...

Patagonia Houdini Wind JacketNote 1: This is a review of my 2005/6 Houdini. It's longevity is revealing (it may have been the Dragonfly back then, even).
Note 2: If the price is outrageous, no one would buy it! The prote...

Patagonia Ready Mix Softshell PantsI disagree with all Kev's objections, and desperately wish I could find more mediums to buy.
The simplicity is what I love best. Actually, the perfect in all conditions from 70-10 F fabric is ...

patagonia down sweaterNote: I'm folding this review of the Down hooded pullover into this section because 1) the hooded p/o isn't made anymore, 2) the critical comments likely apply broadly.
I really liked the d...